KOREAN BRAND KGM’S TORRES COVERS ALL BASES WITH THREE VARIANTS ARRIVING IN NZ
- KGM, a modern mobility brand fuelled by the legacy of SsangYong has entered the New Zealand market. KGM is on a path towards advanced electrification, autonomous driving and greater mobility for all.
- Launched in New Zealand in March 2024, the all-new KGM Torres features a brand-new platform designed for multiple drive trains.
- Available in three variants, the petrol KGM Torres, all-electric KGM Torres EVX and from mid-2024 a Torres 4WD model.
- 1.5 G-Di turbocharged engine with third generation Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission.
- Smart, digital, intuitive dual 12.3” cluster and infotainment display.
- 1.5 tonne towing limit.
- Impressive load area capacity.
The KGM Torres draws inspiration from the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. Recognised as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 1978, this remarkable park is famed for its majestic mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. Torres captures the essence of adventure, challenge, and escapism, reflecting the allure of its namesake.
Built on an entirely new platform, the all-new KGM Torres offers drivers the freedom to expand their lifestyle outdoor adventures. Its direct injection turbocharged engine and smooth transmission deliver exceptional performance under real-world driving conditions.
The exterior projects a rugged and tough aesthetic, while the interior offers a delicate, comfortable, and contemporary space. Seamlessly integrated into the ergonomic design, Torres minimises physical controls, emphasising clear communication, ease of operation, and convenience.
Combining cutting-edge intelligent technology into an authentic-looking SUV, Torres provides a comprehensive suite of state-of-the-art driving assistance features. Whatever the journey, Torres is ready for adventure.
Pricing
- KGM Torres (petrol) $49,990
- KGM Torres (4WD) $54,990 – available mid-2024 in NZ
- KGM Torres EVX $67,990 with an introductory special Recommended Retail Price of $66,990 for the first 40 units.
DESIGN
Exterior
Representing a departure from the brand's traditional design, Torres introduces a sleek and modern exterior, proceeding the brand's reputation for strong, practical lines. This design's bold direction sets it apart within the company's line up and draws inspiration from iconic SUVs on the market.
KGM strived to embody a contemporary yet authentic SUV aesthetic through its powerful body lines and rich, voluminous design. The front showcases angled and elongated headlights, creating a strong impression with a 3D headlamp effect.2 Daytime running lights (DRL) exhibit varying appearances from different angles, resembling the seven stars that make up one of the most well-known sights in the sky, the ‘Big Dipper’.
The wide radiator grille serves as a potent symbol of the brand's heritage, featuring repeated vertical castellations for a robust frontal image. Thick character lines on either side of the bonnet emphasise the muscular shape while detailing enhances the outdoor character.
Angular wheel arches and low, straight character lines connecting the front and rear contribute to a dynamic side design, while the metallic-look C-pillar detail and high gloss A-pillars add a luxurious finish. The rear design reflects the strength of and pays homage to a traditional SUV, with a distinctive bump on the tailgate reminiscent of an integrated spare wheel cover. LED taillights and a matching skid plate on the rear bumper complete the visual identity of ‘Crafted to Unexpected’ for Torres.
Colour swatch
Torres is available in the following colours:
- Space Black
- Grand White
- Latte Greige
- Iron Silver
- Dandy Blue
- Forest Green
Wheels
- KGM Torres and Torres 4WD features 18” alloy wheels (diamond cut) with 235/55 tyres.
- KGM Torres EVX features 20” alloy wheels (diamond cut) with 245/45 tyres.
Interior
Torres’ interior has been designed to maximise comfort and convenience for all onboard. The wide yet slim dashboard creates a spacious feel, providing an uninterrupted view of the road. Aside from being stylish, the four-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel offers integrated audio controls for quick access. Metal accents and ambient mood lighting add a sophisticated touch to the upholstery.
Integrated seamlessly into the ergonomic design, Torres reduces reliance on physical controls for clear communication. Information is presented on a user-friendly, twin panoramic 12.3” digital display cluster and infotainment controls. Standard features include Apple CarPlay®, Google Android AutoTM 3, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio, and front USB-C and AUX ports, accompanied by six cabin speakers. The Torres EVX model enhances this experience with a wireless phone charging pad, combining practicality and advanced technology for a more comprehensive driving experience.
The Torres and Torres EVX feature TPU upholstery, with the Torres 4WD adding luxury leather trim. The EVX model adds an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a 6-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. All three models offer heated front seats for added comfort in colder conditions. The Torres EVX and Torres 4WD take it further by introducing seat ventilation for a cooling effect, enhancing the overall driving experience. The black interior colourway, with copper accents, is standard across all three models and all exterior colour swatches.
Torres dimensions
Torres offers convenience from the moment you step inside. To meet the requirement for space and accessibility, Torres EVX and Torres 4WD feature powered seats with lumbar support for optimal driving comfort, while also having the best-in-class luggage space and numerous useful storage spaces.
Torres also strategically positions itself within the KGM lineup with its size serving as a perfect intermediary between the robust SUV Korando and the spacious 7-seater Rexton. With a width of 1,890mm, Torres offers ample space for manoeuvring and passenger comfort. The load area sets an industry standard, ranging from 703 to 1,662 litres, presenting an expansive luggage capacity suitable for a mid-size SUV.
Adding to its versatility, Torres features a discrete and concealed space beneath the load floor, enhancing both space efficiency and security. This substantial and practical storage area caters to various needs, making it exceptionally convenient for both daily activities and road-trip adventures.
Dimensions (mm)
Overall length 4715
Overall width 1890
Overall height 1720
Wheelbase 2680
Load space (L) 703 (rear seat fully up) – 1662 (rear seat fully down)
THE LINE-UP
Torres is extremely well equipped and comes with generous levels of equipment as standard. Adorned with the new generation of KGM design and drivetrain, this C + segment vehicle comfortably seats five with plenty of cargo space and has the versatility that you would expect from a modern mid-size SUV.
The KGM Torres and Torres 4WD are available with a 1.5L GDi-T petrol engine with automatic transmission.
The pure-electric KGM Torres EVX is powered by a 73.4kWh battery and uses a single electric motor that produces 201bhp and 339Nm of torque to drive the front wheels. A single charge will power the Torres EVX for up to 462 kilometres.
PERFORMANCE AND SAFTEY
By matching a powerful new 1.5-litre petrol turbo engine with the third-generation Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission, Torres delivers the performance needed for comfortable travel over any road surface.
The 1.5L turbo petrol engine with a powerful maximum torque delivers a dynamic driving performance with smooth gear changing a third-generation Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission, including features such as an integrated exhaust manifold, improved power from a cold start, an electromagnetic circulation valve, and an electronic carbon emission gate.
The seamless collaboration between the engine and transmission ensures swift, smooth, and
quiet gear shifts, helping to maximise fuel efficiency and providing an enhanced driving experience that goes beyond that expected in a typical SUV.
Noise, vibration, harshness (NVH)
Torres' interior noise is minimised by using sound-absorbing materials and foam pads in particular areas of the car's body. During construction, structural adhesives are also applied to the car's body to reduce interior noise and vibration, thereby ensuring comfortable driving and easy communication between those in the cabin.
This revision boasts a 0.5dB decrease in interior noise at idle compared to its competitors, with superior conversation clarity and lower noise levels while driving.
Towing capacity
The towing capacity of Torres is up to 1.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, and 500kg for an unbraked trailer. It also offers a competitive approach and departure angles for safer, stress-free driving in more challenging or off-road situations. In the event of a trailer snaking while being towed, the trailer sway control function takes over to help the driver regain control when this alarming phenomenon starts to affect the steering and directional stability.
The Torres EVX boosts its adventure possibility credentials with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500kg with a braked trailer, and 500kg for an unbraked trailer. The EVX also features V2L (vehicle-to-load) charging capabilities, so its battery pack can be used to power appliances when you are outdoors.
Torres can climb as steep as a 28.03-degree angle with maximum climb ability of 53.23%, allowing it to easily navigate through steep hills. On the other hand, the vehicle's fording depth of up to 300mm at a speed of 30km/h is achieved due to the highly effective waterproofing of the chassis.
Body-on-frame construction
Torres’ body-on-frame construction is built using 78% high-tensile automotive-grade steel to achieve body rigidity and utmost safety. To further secure consumer confidence, proven POSCO steel plate, 22% general steel, 44% high tensile steel, and 34% super high tensile steel is used, minimising deformation in a collision and maximising the protection of passengers.
Advanced safety systems
An increased level of active safety features is present in Torres to prevent accidents and utilise class-leading technologies to provide greater safety. Features include:
- Airbags – 8 airbags, including dual, side, and curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) - Automatically prevents collisions by applying the brakes when a potential collision is detected.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) - Warns the driver when the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane unless turn indicators are activated.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) - Electronically warns the driver if the vehicle unintentionally departs from its lane without using turn indicators.
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) - Alerts the driver when a vehicle or pedestrian is detected in the vehicle's path.
- Front Vehicle Start Alert (FVSA) - Notifies the driver when the vehicle in front is moving away.
- Driver Attention Alert (DAA) - Aims to reduce accidents caused by driver fatigue, activating at speeds above 65 km/h by monitoring driver behaviour.
- Safety Distance Alert (SDA) - Warns the driver of a potential collision with a vehicle ahead or a pedestrian in the traffic lane, preceding the Active Safety Brake.
- Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) - Monitors conditions, adjusting engine output and braking to prevent loss of control, integrating ABS, rollover protection, and more.
- Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) - The hazard lights are automatically activated when the vehicle makes an emergency stop to alert other drivers.
- Traction Control System (TCS) - Detects if any of the wheels are losing their grip on the road and automatically corrects the problem to ensure the car's stability.
- Front Vehicle Start Alert (FSVA) - Attracts driver’s attention with a visual pop-up alert and audible warning when the vehicle directly in front starts to pull away.
- Hill Start Assist (HSA) - This feature helps prevent roll-back when starting off from a stopped position on a hill by maintaining brake pressure while the driver’s foot moves from the brake to the accelerator pedal.
- Hill Descent Control (HDC) - This allows a controlled hill descent on rough terrain without the driver having to apply the brakes.
- Rear Cross Traffic Warning (RCTW) - Sounds an alarm when reversing and an approaching vehicle is detected in your path.
- Smart High Beam (SBA) - Automatically lowers the high beam at night when an approaching vehicle is detected to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic and making night-driving safer.
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD) – helps to avoid incidents at crossroads, with on-coming vehicles as well as those approaching from the rear and side when overtaking.
- Anti-Rollover Protection (ARP) - When the vehicle encounters a sharp turn at high speed, the system adjusts the braking force on each wheel and controls the engine power, helping to prevent a rollover.
- Brake Assist System (BAS) - The system recognises the driver's intention to do an ‘emergency stop’ and increases the brake force to help reduce braking distance, increasing protection in an emergency.
Torres EVX adds:
- RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Collision Assist) -When reversing and an approaching vehicle is detected in its path, RCTA sounds an alarm and RCTA automatically applies the brakes to stop the vehicle and minimise the risk of collision.
- Blind Spot Assist (BSA) - When leaving from a parallel parking place and a vehicle approach from the rear, this function will apply the brakes to prevent a collision.
- Safety Exit Warning (SEW) - This warns of the risk of collision with vehicles in the blind spot when an occupant opens a door to get out of the vehicle once stationary.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) - Continually checks tyre pressure, warning the driver of unsafe inflation.
Self-driving systems
In terms of self-driving capabilities, Torres achieves a 2.5 on the six-level scale established by SAE International. This places it just above the category known as 'Partial Driving Automation.'
While not fully autonomous, the advanced control features in Torres offer customers a sense of reassurance through the implementation of sophisticated safety systems.
This includes Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC), which is available in all three models. When driving on motorways and other roads, the IACC plays a key role in maintaining a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front by managing acceleration, deceleration, stopping, and starting - all based on the speed set by the driver.
Additionally, IACC assists in staying within the lane by employing state-of-the-art driving assistance systems mentioned above. Moreover, Torres incorporates an autonomous driving assistance system that contributes to a more relaxed driving experience by ensuring a safe speed and leveraging navigation data, especially on motorways.
MULTIMEDIA AND CONVENIENCE
12.3-inch high-resolution dual digital cluster and infotainment display
The infotainment system in Torres is the most comprehensive in-car entertainment and communication system produced by the KGM to date. Featuring a 12.3-inch HD LCD screen with a resolution of 1280x720, this system offers a wide range of functionalities and presents the driver with all the information they made need they need at a glance.
Users can enjoy AM/FM and DAB+ radio, connect their smartphones via Bluetooth® for hands-free communication, and utilise the USB-C port to enjoy Apple CarPlay®, Google Android AutoTM, 3, as well as media playback for videos, audio, and photos.
The infotainment system also includes a rear parking camera to assist with parking manoeuvres and integrates temperature controls.
For added convenience, users can drag the screen from the right to access the split screen to display the climate controls (with heated/ventilated seats), audio, Bluetooth® phone, clock, and compass. Dragging the screen from the top will access the upper menu, where users can control audio volume, drive mode, parking assist, auto hold, hill descent control, rearview camera monitoring and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
The Torres EVX comes equipped with a smart tailgate system designed to provide convenience for drivers with their hands full. When the key holder stands behind the tailgate for a few seconds (provided this feature is activated), the tailgate opens automatically. After loading items into the trunk, simply press the close switch located on the inside of the tailgate, and you can walk away.
Other convenience features:
To make Torres even smarter, easier, and more comfortable to drive, other convenience features include:
- Folding keys with remote keyless entry system and keyless push button start
- Glovebox with illumination & key lock
- Electric windows (front & rear)
- Overhead console with touch-controlled LED cabin lamps
- Electronic power steering
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Electrically operated & heated door mirrors
- Automatic power folding door mirrors
- Electro-chromatic rear-view mirror
- 60:40 split 2nd-row seats with folding centre armrest
- Remote central locking
- Automatic door locking system
- Electronic parking brake with auto hold
- Rear passenger door sunblinds
- Front door courtesy lamp
- Illuminated sun visor
- Luggage cover
- Luggage board
- Rear parking camera
Climate control
Torres has a sophisticated climate control system that ensures a comfortable cabin environment regardless of the weather. Both trims include automatic dual-zone air conditioning, an automatic de-misting system, and air vents for rear-seat passengers.
Aftersales
- 5-year / 150,000-kilometre warranty
- 15,000 kilometres / 12 months service interval
KGM New Zealand’s Head of Brand Marketing Daile Stephens says: “Torres is the first KGM model to reinterpret our future design vision, which draws heavily on our unique heritage. Its launch marks an exciting, new era for both design and product, with all models moving forward adhering to this new approach.
“The SUV market is continually expanding and subdividing, and with Torres, we are filling the gap between semi-medium-sized SUVs such as Korando and large SUVs, like Rexton. This move will create an additional segment in the market and open new opportunities for us as we continue to develop our product offering that add value and originality.”
- Recommended Retail Price includes GST and excludes on road costs and accessories.
- Overseas model shown in images.
- Compatible Apple® or Android™ device required.
KGM New Zealand
Catherine Pattison
Public Relations
catherine.pattison@inchcape.co.nz
